Sergio Aguero celebrates his goal against Kelantan United. - Photo by Pahang FC
PETALING JAYA: Footballer Sergio Aguero got what he wanted – a timely boost before he assumes national duty ahead of Malaysia’s international friendly matches against China and Syria next month.
The Argentine-born Malaysian playmaker was on song for Pahang when he scored two goals to help them thrash Kelantan United 5-1 in the Super League encounter at the Sultan Mohd IV Stadium in Kota Baru on Sunday.
The 29-year-old scored in the 23rd and 27th minutes to help the Elephants clinch their 12th win of the season.
The other goals were scored by rightback Azrif Nasrulhaq (10th), Liberian striker Kpah Sherman (66th) and midfielder David Rowley (92nd).
Kelantan United’s consolation came through Royizzat Daud in the 77th minute.
With the win, Pahang stay fifth with 40 points from 20 matches, just two points behind fourth-placed Sabah, who have played 22 games.
Aguero is one of the three Pahang players selected by national coach Kim Pan-gon for the friendlies against Syria (Sept 6) and China (Sept 9) in Chengdu, China.
The other two selected are midfielder Nor Azam Azih and winger Nur Shamie Iszuan Amin.
Aguero hopes to score goals for Harimau Malaya too.
“It is always nice to deliver and scoring two is a bonus. These past few games have boosted my confidence. I’m happy with my contribution to this game,” said Aguero.
“We’ve a good attacking combination of Kpah, Lucas (Espindola), Rafael (Silva) and David. They are doing a good job.
“I’m happy to represent Malaysia again and wear the national jersey.
“The friendlies will give us an idea on how prepared we are to face the big guns in the Asian Cup.”
The tournament is from Jan 12-Feb 24 next year in Qatar and Malaysia are drawn in Group E alongside two-time winners South Korea, Jordan and Bahrain.
The winners and group runners-up, as well as the four best third-placed teams will qualify for the knockout stage.
